Quick-pitch tent

ABSTRACT

An improved tent ( 10 ) for quick construction, including a fabric enclosure ( 11 ) which serves as walls ( 28, 30, 32 ), roof ( 34 ) and floor ( 36 ) of the tent ( 10 ). The tent ( 10 ) includes a frame ( 12 ), which attaches to and supports the fabric enclosure ( 11 ). The frame ( 12 ) includes at least two frame poles ( 13 ) having upper ( 20 ) and lower ends ( 22 ). The frame poles ( 13 ) form at least one V-shape ( 90 ), the lower ends ( 22 ) being positioned in close proximity to form the tip ( 92 ) of the V-shape ( 90 ), and the upper ends ( 20 ) spread apart forming the legs ( 94 ) of the V shape ( 90 ). The upper ends ( 20 ) tend to fall away from each other on either side of a bisecting vertical line ( 96 ) to the extent allowed by their attachment to the fabric enclosure ( 11 ), thereby spreading the fabric enclosure ( 11 ) and aiding in the quick construction of the tent ( 10 ).

[0001] This application is a divisional of prior application Ser. No.09/356,109 which was filed on Jul. 16, 1999. This application alsoclaims priority from U.S. provisional applications Ser. No. 60/093,092filed Jul. 16, 1998, which has the same inventor as the presentapplication.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates generally to cabin tent structures,and more particularly to tent pole and hub systems as well asfabric-covered structures

BACKGROUND ART

[0003] One of the earliest forms of shelter known to humankind is thetent. Huge variety in tent design exists, but common elements includetent fabric and tent poles which shape and support the fabric. Mosttents use multiple tent poles, often with hubs connecting the tent polestogether. It therefore becomes the combination of poles and hubs whichdefine many characteristics of such tents. Examples of importantcharacteristics include structural shape, rigidity, ability to supportthe tent fabric, and reaction to externally applied stresses such asthose caused by bumping into the tent or from wind buffeting the tentand causing the walls to vibrate.

[0004] For purposes of the following discussion, tent poles will beclassed as side poles, gable poles, ridge poles, and horizontal poles.In assembled tents, side poles extend in a generally verticalorientation from the ground surface up to the beginning of the roofregion of a tent. Gable poles extend from the edge of a tent roof upwardto the peak of the tent roof, and have a sloping orientation (i.e.,generally in the range of 30 to 60 degrees relative to horizontal).Ridge poles are generally horizontal, but for discussion here arestrictly defined as being at the peak of the tent roof (the term tiepole is sometimes used for this). Finally, horizontal poles are hereinstrictly defined as including all generally horizontally oriented polesexcept ridge poles (e.g., they include poles typically used at the eavesor lower roof edges of some tent designs).

[0005] Balancing tent pole system characteristics is not an easyengineering task. Some of the already mentioned characteristics urgecontradictory engineering solutions. For example, strong rigid shapesgenerally are best accomplished by framing the shape in closed geometricshapes, such as the triangular and rectangular members used inengineering wire-frame drawings. Unfortunately, while framed sectionsare strong and rigid, they also transmit force and vibration very well,often with undesirable results. Further, framed sections may requiremore parts than other designs, and therefore may result in increasedoverall tent weight and cost. Thus, optimizing only some characteristicsmay conflict with general goals for an entire tent system.

[0006] For discussion here, tent pole systems can be defined as freestanding, pre-stressed, and gravity assisted systems. In the markettoday, the free standing system is used primarily for larger tents(including yurts, and show tents); the pre-stressed construction is usedprimarily in smaller, shorter type (one and two person) portable tents;and gravity assisted systems are primarily used for cabin tents (i.e.,tents large enough to accommodate at least a small family, and usuallytall enough that an average adult can stand fully upright in the tentcenter). A good example of a free standing tent system is the teepee. Ithas a very strong and rigid frame over which fabric is draped. However,the fabric adds nothing to the strength or shape of the finished tepee.When designing tepees the tent fabric and the tent pole system areeffectively two unrelated problems. At an opposite extreme arepre-stressed pole systems, good examples of these can be found today intents using fiberglass poles which are bent into place during assemblyand held together by the tent fabric in a spring-like manner to definethe tent structure. Attempting to assemble such a tent with only thepoles and hubs (if any) would be impossible, or at best produce a veryflimsy structure. Finally, in a category falling between the freestanding and pre-stressed systems are gravity-assisted systems. Manycabin tents in the market today belong in this classification. In suchtents the poles do not form as strong a system as when no tent fabric isassembled onto them, nor are the tent poles intentionally bent in themanner of springs to assemble and tension the tent. Rather, onceassembled onto a finished tent, the fabric under the weight of gravityhelps to define and stabilize the final tent structure. In such tentsthe critical components become the hubs used to connect the tent poles,since it is in these that forces concentrate and must be accommodated.

[0007] Various forces are applied to tent hubs, either directly, or morecommonly indirectly, through the tent poles inserted into the hubs. Onesuch force is fabric weight, which actually may be variable, since rain,snow, and other substances can “weigh down” tent fabric. Externalstresses form another group of forces which also ultimately reach thehubs. Assembled tents may be bumped by users who are either inside oroutside of the tent. And when present, wind may range from constantlypressing against the tent from one direction to buffeting it fromrapidly changing directions at different speeds, thereby causingvibration in the tent structure. It therefore follows that for a cabintent design to be acceptable the hubs which are used must successfullydeal with all of these forces.

[0008] Additional concerns for many tent designs are parts count andoverall tent weight. Reducing parts count has the obvious advantage thatfewer parts mean less loss or misplacement and almost always reducescost also, particularly if the eliminated parts are tent poles made ofaluminum. And, usually, reducing parts count leads to a more intuitiveassembly process, and sometimes a simpler one as well. Further, it maystrongly affect tent weight. Generally, of the three major componentsused in cabin tents the fabric is least dense, the hub has intermediatedensity (at least in plastic hubs, as are preferred today), and thepoles are most dense, since they are metal or high density plastic likefiberglass. There are, of course, also notable size differences in thesecomponents. For example, hubs and poles are markedly different in size.Thus, by accepting some size increase in smaller less dense parts, toeliminate some high density large parts entirely, an overall weightsavings may be accomplished by selective parts count reduction.

[0009] From the above discussion it should be clear that good tentdesign must balance many factors.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

[0010] Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to providea tent which can be assembled in very little time, and with a minimum ofseparate pieces.

[0011] Another object of the invention is to provide a tent which has aconvertible roof.

[0012] And, another object of the invention is to provide a tent whichhas an exterior screen structure.

[0013] Briefly, one preferred embodiment of the present invention is animproved tent for quick construction, including a fabric enclosure whichserves as walls, roof and floor of the tent. The tent also includes aframe which attaches to and supports the fabric enclosure. The frameincludes at least two frame poles having upper and lower ends. The framepoles form at least one V-shape, the lower ends being positioned inclose proximity to form the tip of the V-shape, and the upper endsspread apart forming the legs of the V shape. The upper ends tend tofall away from each other on either side of a bisecting vertical line tothe extent allowed by their attachment to the fabric enclosure, therebyspreading the fabric enclosure and aiding in the quick construction ofthe tent.

[0014] A second preferred embodiment of the present invention is aconvertible tent which includes a fabric enclosure which serves aswalls, roof and floor of the tent. A frame supports the fabric enclosureand configures the fabric enclosure into a tent. The tent roof includesa top portion and a screen portion, the top portion being convertible sothat the screen portion is exposed.

[0015] A third preferred embodiment of the present invention is a tentwith an exterior screen structure having an inner tent structure,including an inner fabric enclosure which serve as walls, roof and floorof the inner tent structure and an outer tent structure including anouter fabric enclosure. A single frame supports both inner and outerfabric enclosures.

[0016] An advantage of the present invention is that the first preferredembodiment contains a V-shaped side support structure which minimizesthe number of pieces required for assembly of the tent.

[0017] Another advantage of the invention is that a second preferredembodiment contains a screened roof portion which can be exposed topresent a convertible roof.

[0018] And, another advantage of the invention is that a third preferredembodiment includes a inner structure which is enclosed by an outerscreen structure. The space between the inner and outer structuresprovides a protected living area for users.

[0019] These and other objects and advantages of the present inventionwill become clear to those skilled in the art in view of the descriptionof the best presently known mode of carrying out the invention and theindustrial applicability of the preferred embodiment as described hereinand as illustrated in the several figures of the drawings.

[0020] The purposes and advantages of the present invention will beapparent from the following detailed description in conjunction with theappended drawings in which:

[0021]FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the “Quick Pitch Tent”embodiment of the present invention, including a detail view A of theattachment site of a frame pole to a pin ring;

[0022]FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a peak hub of the presentinvention;

[0023]FIG. 3 shows a top plan view of a three corner hub of the presentinvention;

[0024]FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an “Open Roof ConvertibleTent” embodiment of the present invention, with the roof opened;

[0025]FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of an “Open Roof Convertible Tent”embodiment of the present invention, with the convertible top in place,and also including detail view B of the attachment site of a corner ofthe top to the support poles of the tent;

[0026]FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the screen house of the“Tent with Exterior Screen House” embodiment of the present invention;

[0027]FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the inner tent of the “Tentwith Exterior Screen House” embodiment of the present invention; and

[0028]FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of the combined structure ofthe “Tent with Exterior Screen House” embodiment of the presentinvention with the inner tent shown in normal outline and the screenhouse shown in dashed outline.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0029] Three preferred embodiments of improved camping tents aredescribed, 1) the Quick Pitch Tent, 2) the Open Roof Convertible Tent,and 3) the Tent with Exterior Screen house. Each shall be described inturn.

The Quick Pitch Tent

[0030] A preferred embodiment of the present invention is an improvedcamping tent. As illustrated in FIG. 1, a form of this preferredembodiment of the inventive device is a pole and fabric system of a tentdepicted by the general reference character 10. The tent 10 includesgenerally a fabric enclosure 11 and a frame 12.

[0031] The frame 12, in this case, includes four frame poles 13. Eachframe pole 13 includes a side pole portion 14, and a gable pole portion16. Connections between side pole portion 14 and gable pole portion 16are accomplished by means a curved elbow portion 17. Two peak hubs 19are used to connect the gable pole portions 16 of the frame poles 13.Each side pole portion 14 has an upper end 20 and a lower end 22. Eachgable pole portion 16 has an upper end 24 and a lower end 26.

[0032] The fabric enclosure 11 has a front wall 28 with a front door 29,a rear wall 30 with a rear window 31, two side walls 32, two roof panels34 and a floor 36 (not visible). At the juncture of the walls 28, 30,and 32, with the floor 36, there is a perimeter 38 with front and backside portions 40 and two side portions 42. At the four corners of theperimeter 38 there are corner loops 44 through which stakes 45 can bedriven to secure the tent 12 to the ground. At approximately the centerof each perimeter side portion 42 there are side loops 46 to each ofwhich are attached a pin ring 48 to which are secured two pins 50, whichare sized to mate with sockets 51 on the lower ends 22 of the side poles14. The tent also optionally has a skirt 52 and screened windows 54which can be covered by flaps 56 (not visible) when required. The flaps56 can be secured to block the windows by peripheral zippers, ties,velcro™ fasteners or any number of other conventional means.

[0033] At the juncture of front or back walls 28, 30, side wall 32 androof panels 34, there are retaining loops 58 with plastic hooks whichserve to attach the tent fabric to the frame near the curved elbowportion 17. At the juncture of front or back walls 28, 30, and roofpanels 34, there are peak retaining loops 60.

[0034] The frame poles 13 are made up of a number of component piecessuch as the side pole portions 14, the gable pole portions 16 and thecurved elbow portions 17 which are connected together end to end to makethe final composite length, but which can be detached for compactstorage and transportation. The side pole portions 14 and the gable poleportions 16 can themselves be composed of smaller component pieces. Theframe poles 13 are preferably composed of hollow tubing, which enclosesan elastic connecting material which acts to urge the component piecesinto retained engagement with each other, when the pole has beenconstructed. When disassembled, the component pieces are then stillconnected together by the elastic connector (not visible), which helpsto keep the pieces grouped. The connectors also make it nearlyimpossible to assemble the pieces incorrectly, or to mate incompatibleends, and assembly of the tent structure is made much quicker, sincepieces need not be sorted and matched to their mating parts. Theconnectors may also not be elastic along their complete length. Theportion exposed at the joins of the pieces may be of chain links orcable while the portion that remains encased within the hollow poleportion may be of elastic. Thus, the more fragile elastic material isprotected from cuts or abrasions.

[0035] The lower end 22 of the side pole portion 14 of frame pole 13 hasa socket 51, which is sized to receive one of the pins 50 on the pinring 48. Detail circle A shows these elements in greater detail. Forclarity, only one pin 50 is shown attached to the pin ring 48, althoughin this embodiment, there are actually two, one for the socket 51 ofeach frame pole 13.

[0036] As seen in more detail in FIG. 2, the peak hubs 19 have twotubular members 70 connected at a junction 72. Ports 74 are open ateither end of the hub 19, and are sized to accept the upper end 24 of agable pole portion 16 of frame pole 13. The tubular members 70 areconfigured to form an obtuse angle 76. The hub 19 also has a web portion78 which serves to strengthen the hub structure and to dampen vibrationstransmitted to it by the connecting poles. The opening 80 in the web ofthe peak hub 19 allows an attachment point for one of the peak retainingloops 60 (see FIG. 1). The hubs are thus maintained in permanent properrelation to the tent structure even when the tent is disassembled. Thisalso speeds construction of the tent, as there is no hunting for partsand no need to match them to their proper location.

[0037] The tent 10 is thus constructed roughly according to thefollowing sequence, although much variation in order of steps ispossible. The fabric enclosure 11 and frame poles 13 are unpacked fromthe tent's carrying bag. The floor 36 is spread out to form theperimeter 38. The frame poles 13 are unfolded and the component piecesassembled into their final composite length by attaching them end toend, as guided by the internal elastic connectors. The upper ends 24 ofthe gable pole portions 16 of the frame poles 13 are attached to theports 74 of the peak hubs 19. The frame poles 13 are then flexedslightly to allow the pins 50 of the side pin rings 48 to be insertedinto the sockets 51 in the lower ends 22 of the side pole portions 14.The tension in the frame poles 13 ensures that the gable pole portionends 24 are urged to remain in the ports 74 of the hubs 19 and theretaining pins 50 are not allowed to slip out of the sockets at thelower ends 22 of the side pole portions 14. The tension in the polesalso stretches the tent fabric and ensures that the walls do not sagtowards the tent's interior.

[0038] In the preferred embodiment, there are a total of four poles,i.e. the frame poles 13, which make up the entire rigid structuralsupport of the tent 10. It will of course be obvious to one skilled inthe art that the portions of the overall frame poles 13 which have beenidentified as the gable pole portions 16 and side pole portions 14 couldbe completely separate and independent gable poles and side poles. Theseseparate side and gable poles could be connected by corner hubs, similarto the peak hubs. These corner hubs would take the place of the elbowportions 17. This however would mean that the number of poles would bedoubled from 4 to 8, and would necessitate more time to sort the polesas to function. Assembly time would thus be slowed.

[0039] The frame 12, which results from the frame poles 13, peak hubs 19and retaining pins 50, produces a very sturdy, yet light-weightstructure. The frame 12 when viewed from the side is a large “V” 90which extends from the bottom tip 92 of the V 90 to the peak hubs 19.The bottom tip 92 of this V 90 is located approximately at the centerpoint of the side perimeter 42, and is anchored by the pin ring 48. Thetwo side legs 94 of the V are equal in length, and tend to fall awayfrom each other symmetrically with respect to a vertical center line 96until stopped by the extent of the tent roof fabric. This naturaltendency to spread aids in building the tent, and helps to speed theconstruction. A second V (not visible) is constructed in a similarmanner on the opposing side of the tent 10.

[0040] The corner stakes 45 are then driven and the tent fabric 11 thencooperates with the frame 12 to create a sturdy structure which isrelatively impervious to shock and buffeting by wind.

Open Roof Convertible Tent

[0041] A second preferred embodiment of the present invention is shownin FIG. 4. Again, it is referred to generally by the reference number110. Whenever the elements correspond to those previously enumerated,the same numbers will be used, prefixed with “1”.

[0042] The tent 110 includes generally a fabric enclosure 111 and aframe 112. The frame 112 includes 6 side poles 114 and 3 gable poles,which may be more correctly termed horizontal poles 116. The side polesare of two types. First, there are two extendable center poles 102,which are each composed of an inner member 103 and an outer member 104,which has a locking mechanism 105, and a bottom foot 106. The secondtype of side pole 114 is the lateral pole 107, of which there are two oneither of the two sides of the tent for a total of four.

[0043] The horizontal poles 116 are of two types, curvilinear poles 115of which there are two, and a single straight ridge pole 117. Thecurvilinear poles 115 are made from flexible material such asfiberglass. In this preferred embodiment, the curvilinear poles 115 arehollow with interior elastic connector portions, as described above. Theridge pole 117 is of rigid material such as steel tubing which isdesigned not to bend. The ridge pole 117 is composed of two shortersegments 119 having curved ends, each of which is configured for matingconnection with a central side pole 102 at either end. Each side pole114 has an upper end 120 and a lower end 122. The horizontal poles 116will be spoken of as having only first ends 124 and second ends 126.

[0044] The fabric enclosure 111 has a front wall 128 with a front door129, a rear wall 130 with a rear door 131, two side walls 132, two roofpanels 134 and a floor 136 (not visible). At the juncture of the walls128, 130, 132 with the floor 136, there is a perimeter 138 with frontand back side portions 140 and two side portions 142. At the fourcorners of the perimeter 138 there are corner loops 144 through whichstakes 45 can be driven to secure the tent 110 to the ground. Around theperimeter 138, in the front and back portions 140 and side portion 142there are side loops 146 which also serve to anchor the tent 110. Thetent 110 also optionally has a skirt 152 and screened windows 154 whichcan be covered by flaps 156 (not visible) when required. The flaps 156can be secured to block the windows 154 by peripheral zippers, ties,velcro™ fasteners or any number of other conventional means.

[0045] At the juncture of front or back walls 128, 130 and roof panels134, there are pole sleeves 182. At the juncture of the two roof panels134, there is a ridge pole sleeve 184. These sleeves 182, 184 serve toretain and channel the horizontal poles 116, and help to form thecontours of the roof. The fabric enclosure 111 also has retaining loops158 which are attached to the corner hubs 118 and which serve tomaintain them in the proper proximity to the pole sleeves 182 and thehorizontal poles 116. Four corner hubs 118 are configured to receive theupper end 120 of a side pole 114 and a first 124 or second end 126 of acurvilinear pole 115. The diameter of the side poles 114 and thecurvilinear poles 115 in the preferred embodiment are different, withthe curvilinear poles 115 being of a lesser diameter than the rigid sidepoles 114. The corner hubs 118 which receive the ends of these two polesthus necessarily have a larger diameter port 174, and a smaller diameterport 175 to receive these two different sized pole ends. The retainingloops 158 serve to keep the corner hub oriented correctly with thesmaller sized port 175 facing the end 124, 126 of the curvilinear pole115, and the larger port 174 toward the upper end 120 of the side pole107. The retaining loop thus speeds assembly by dispensing with the stepof orienting the corner hub 118 properly. It is of course possible thatboth poles could be made with the same diameter, in which case, thematching of the port size to the pole size is unnecessary.

[0046] Construction of the tent 110 is done by inserting the curvilinearpoles 115 into the pole sleeves 182, and the ridge pole 117 into theridge pole sleeve 184. The first ends 124 of the curvilinear poles areinserted into the smaller ports 175 of one set of the corner hubs 118.Axial force is applied to the poles 115, bending them slightly to allowthem to be inserted into the second set of corner hubs 118. Theretaining loops 158 that restrain the corner hubs 118 from moving thencooperate to maintain tension in the poles 115. The sleeves 182 definethe allowed shape of the bow of the poles 115, and define the resultingcurvilinear shape of the roof portion near the corner. The upper ends120 of the side poles 114 are then inserted into the larger ports 174 ofthe corner hubs 118. Each of the curved ends of the two segments 119 ofthe ridge pole 117 are attached to each of the upper ends of the centralside poles 102. The inner member 103 of each central side pole 102 isinserted into a hollow outer member 104, and allowed to slide within ina telescoping action. The end foot 106 of the central side pole 102 isplaced on the ground and the inner pole members 103 extended to raisethe roof of the tent 110 to the proper height. The retaining mechanisms105 are then engaged, which prevent the inner members 103 fromtelescoping back into the outer members 104. In the preferred embodimentthe inner member 103 is of larger diameter than the lateral poles 107,but it is possible that all lateral poles and the inner member polescould be the same size.

[0047] The lateral poles 107 are then brought to the proper positionsand the stakes driven in the corner loops 144 and side loops to securethe lower perimeter 138. The height of the central side poles 102 maythen be further extended or retracted and the angle of placement of thelateral poles 107 adjusted.

[0048] It is asserted that the particular combination of flexible polesfor some areas and rigid poles for other purposes is novel and a veryuseful improvement on standard tent architecture.

[0049] In the preferred embodiment, roof panels 134 are fitted with finemesh screen to form a convertible roof 190. This convertible roof 190 isespecially attractive for viewing the skies from an insect-proofenvironment, during camping trips, and can be very useful for camperswith an interest in astronomy, or for cloud watching on pleasantafternoons.

[0050] For use when rain threatens or when more protection from the windis desired, a convertible top 192 is provided. As seen in FIG. 5, thetop 192 includes a sheet 193 of water-proof material which covers thescreened roof portals 191 (not visible in this view). The corners of thetop 192 are fitted with elastic bands 194 which terminate in hooks 195.As seen in FIG. 5 and also in more detail in close-up view B, the hooks195 are inserted into holes 196 in the side poles 107. The elastic bands194 ensure that a secure seal is made between the top 192 and the tent112, which is not easily dislodged by wind or rain. Additionally, itensures that the sheet 193 is taut, allowing the material to conform tothe curvilinear shape defined by the poles 115. This shape aids inencouraging rain to run off of the roof, avoiding puddles of accumulatedwater which may add weight and stress to the structure. In the preferredembodiment, the corners and side mid-points of the top 192 include loops197 which can encircle the poles 102, 107 and close with velcro™fasteners. These additionally anchor the top 192 to prevent it fromblowing off.

Tent with Exterior Screen House

[0051] A third preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown inFIGS. 6, 7 and 8. The combined structure including both an interior tentand an exterior screen house will be referred to generally by thereference number 200. Whenever referring to the elements in the screenhouse corresponding to those previously enumerated in reference to theelements of a tent, the same numbers will be used, prefixed by “2”, andwhen referring to elements in the inner tent, the prefix “3” shall beused.

[0052] The outer tent, referred to as the screen house 210, includesgenerally a fabric enclosure 211 and a frame 212.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 6, the screen house 210 is constructed in a domeshape, with a frame 212 constructed from side poles 214 and gable poles216 which support the fabric enclosure 211 material. The corner hubs 218which are used to connect the poles 214, 216, are three way connectors.The screen house 210 in the preferred embodiment has a square base witha perimeter 238 having four equal sides 240 with a front wall 228 havinga front door 229, a rear wall 230 having a rear door 231 and two sidewalls 232. There is no floor. The walls 228, 230 and 232 each havewindows 254, which take up nearly the complete area of the walls. Thesewindows 254 are fitted with screen mesh to keep insects and wildlifeout, while giving a feeling of openness. The portion of the walls nottaken up by the windows shall be referred to as the roof panels 234. Inaddition, there are cloth eaves 235 located over the side windows 254 inorder to shield them from rain runoff. There is also an abbreviatedskirt 252, which serves to protect the perimeter 238 from insectinvasion or water seepage.

[0054] The tent has two sets of retaining sleeves 282 and a number ofloops 257 which serve to channel and direct the poles 214, 216. Thereare loops 246 also at the four corners of the perimeter 238. These loopsare each fitted with a pin ring 248 and a pin 250. These are essentiallythe same as the corresponding elements shown in the detail A of FIG. 1.

[0055] The side poles 214 and gable poles 216 are all made from flexiblehollow tubing such as fiberglass and are composed of short segmentswhich are attached by an internal elastic connector, as described above.The two gable poles 216 can be further classified as a longitudinal pole215, which extends from the front wall 228 to the back wall 230, and atransverse pole 217, which extends from side wall 232 to side wall 232.The transverse pole 217 is captured at both ends by pouches 283. Thetransverse 217 and longitudinal 215 poles cross at roughly right angleson the roof. The side poles 214 have upper ends 220 which have a cap 221and lower ends 222. The lower ends 222 each have a socket 251 which issized to receive one of the pins 250 on the pin ring 248.

[0056] Construction of the screen house 210 is done by assembling theside poles 214 and gable poles 216 into their composite lengths. Thegable poles 216 are inserted into the retaining sleeves 282. The twoends of the transverse gable pole 217 are inserted into the retainingpouches 283 after the pole is bent slightly. The retaining pouches 283ensure that the transverse gable pole 217 is kept under tension, andthat it continues to impart a curve to the upper tent portion. Referringalso to FIG. 3, the longitudinal gable pole 215 is likewise insertedinto its retaining sleeve 282 and both ends of this pole are insertedinto the rear port 274 of the two 3-way corner hubs 218. These hubs 218are attached to the fabric enclosure 211 by loops 258 which threadthrough the opening 280 in the web 278 of the hub 218. The hubs 218 arethus constrained from movement in the gable pole's 215 axial direction,and thus tension and resulting curvature are maintained in thelongitudinal pole 215 as well.

[0057] As FIG. 3 shows, there are three ports 274 in the hub 218. Threeweb portions 278 are provided to strengthen the hub 218. There are inthe preferred embodiment, two differing angles 276 and 277 between theports. A first angle 276 is reflected bilaterally and measuresapproximately 130 degrees in the preferred embodiment between the portsthat receive the longitudinal gable pole 215 and one of the side poles214 (FIG. 6). The second angle 277 measures approximately 100 degreesbetween the ports for receiving two side poles 214 (FIG. 6). It will beapparent to one skilled in the art that these angles are subject to muchvariation; for example, it is possible that both angles 276 and 277 maybe equal, in which case all angles would be 120 degrees. As mentionedabove, an opening 280 is provided for insertion of a loop 258 to attachthe hub 218 to the screen house 210 in a fixed orientation (FIG. 6).

[0058] Referring again to FIGS. 3 and 6, the side poles 214 are insertedthrough the tent loops 257 and their upper ends 220 inserted into theports 274 of the hubs 218. Axial pressure is applied to the poles 214,causing them to bow, and the pins 250 are inserted into the sockets 251to constrain the poles 214 from axial movement. The screen house 210 isthus constructed, and the pressure in the captured poles urges thefabric enclosure 211 to form a dome shape. The interior of the screenhouse 210 has a number of interior loops 259 (not visible) attached onthe ceiling and interior perimeter, which act as attachment points forthe inner tent, to be described below.

[0059] The inner tent preferred embodiment 310 is illustrated in FIG. 7and 8. The fabric enclosure 311 includes a front door wall 328, a reardoor wall 330 and two side walls 332, as well as roof portion 334 andfloor 336 (not visible in this figure). The front door wall 328 and reardoor wall 330 have screened window portions 354 as well as coveringflaps 355 which can be fastened to block wind from flowing through thewindows 354. When not in use, the flaps 355 can be tied back out of theway. The juncture of the floor 336 and walls 328, 330, 332 define aperimeter 338 having front and back portions 340 and side portions 342.At the corners of the perimeter 338 there are elastic bands 394 withhooks 395. Also at the juncture of the front wall 328, the rear wall 330and the roof portions 334 there are a series of hooks 396 which attachto interior loops 259 (not visible) of the screen house 210. The hooks395 of the elastic bands 394 also attach to interior loops 259, and theinner tent 310 is thus suspended within the screen house 210. Side loops346 are secured to the ground by stakes 45, which are also used toanchor some of the lower interior loops 259 to the ground. The rearhooks 395 with elastic bands 394 can be secured by attachment to the pinrings 248 of the screen house 210, and thus the entire perimeter 338 ofthe floor 336 is secured.

[0060] The inner tent 310 is especially unique in requiring no polestructure of its own. In fact, the entire double dome structure 200 issupported by a total of only 6 light-weight poles. This provides a greatadvantage in reduction of weight and number of parts.

[0061] A composite view of the relationship between the inner tent 310and the screen house 210 is illustrated in FIG. 8. A rough outline ofthe screen house 210 is shown in dashed line. The inner tent 310 ispreferably oriented so that the entire tent is offset toward the reardoor wall 230 of the screen house 210. The rear wall 330 of the innertent 312 abuts the rear wall 230 of the screen house 210. The inner tent310 has a rectangular floor area within the larger square base of thescreen house 210. This leaves a free space between the front wall 328 ofthe inner tent 310 and the front wall 228 of the screen house 210, andthis space also has a rectangular aspect. This area within the screenhouse 210, but exterior to the inner tent 310 shall be referred to asthe porch area 399. The porch area 399 has no floor but is securelyscreened from the environment by large mesh screen in all the windows254. This porch area 399 has many uses, such as an area for cleaningboots, or other activities that would be messy if conducted in the innertent or other conventional tent that is completely enclosed. In aconventional tent any debris must be swept out or carried along with thetent when it is moved, but the porch area 399 of the screen house 210allows debris to remain in the environment after the tent is removed.The porch area 399 can also provide a place for securely storing spikedboots, or other equipment which might otherwise threaten to puncture atent floor but which may too valuable to leave completely unguarded.Additionally, lawn furniture can be thus erected in this porch area 399which has an agreeable feeling of openness, while still protecting theinhabitants from insect intrusions. The screen house 210 can, of coursebe used by itself without assembling the inner tent 310 to serve as akind of portable gazebo.

[0062] The inner tent 310 preferably has fine mesh screening which canprotect the inhabitants against very small flying pests known as“no-see-ums”. The screen house 210 adds an additional layer ofprotection with its screens for added security.

[0063] In addition to the above mentioned examples, various othermodifications and alterations of the inventive improved camping tents 10may be made without departing from the invention. Accordingly, the abovedisclosure is not to be considered as limiting and the appended claimsare to be interpreted as encompassing the true spirit and the entirescope of the invention.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0064] The present improved camping tents 10, 110, 200 are well suitedfor application in outdoor camping. Each one has specific features thatmake it particularly well adapted for its purposes.

[0065] The Quick Pitch Tent 10 has a frame structure 12 which hasincludes four frame poles 13 which are grouped into two pairs, each pairbeing configured to be in a V-shape 90. The legs of the V tend to fallaway from each other so that they naturally spread apart and enlarge thespace enclosed by the fabric enclosure 11. This natural spreadingtendency enables the user to very quickly assemble the tent, which canbe of great benefit in bad weather, or where insects make the need toenter a completed tent urgent. Other features included such as the pinrings 48, the elastic connectors inside component pieces of the framepoles 13, and the peak hubs 19 all enhance the speed with which the tent10 can be erected. Campers who have hiked long distances or engaged inother strenuous activities before being faced with the task of pitchinga tent, will especially appreciate the ease and convenience of thistent, and the minimal number of pieces with which it is constructed.

[0066] The Open Roof Convertible Tent 110 is especially useful for thosecampers who appreciate a more open feeling to their tent. Students ofastronomy or cloud watchers will appreciate the chance to observe theskies without the annoyance of insects. The convertible top 192 ispreferably water-proof, and can be easily installed by covering thescreened roof panels 134, and then attaching the corners by elasticbands 194 which terminate in hooks 195. The hooks 195 can preferablyattach to holes 196 in the side poles 107. The top 192 is then securelyanchored, so that wind-driven rain is excluded from the tent.

[0067] The Tent with Exterior Screen House 200 provides an outer screenhouse 210 which surrounds a smaller inner tent 310. The screen house 210has a fabric enclosure 211 and a frame 212. The inner tent 310 has itsown fabric enclosure 311, but in order to use the smallest number ofparts, the screen house frame 212 supports both the screen house fabricenclosure 211 and the inner tent fabric enclosure 311. The area withinthe screen house 210 but outside of the inner tent 310 provides a porcharea 399, which can be used for storing articles which may be too dirtyto bring into the inner tent 310 area, such as muddy boots, etc. Alsoarticles such as spiked boots which would tend to puncture the floor 336of the inner tent 310 can be stored in the porch area 399. It is alsopossible to erect lawn chairs in the porch area 399, and to use it as asitting room which has an agreeable feeling of openness, withoutexposing the users to insect attacks.

[0068] For the above, and other, reasons, it is expected that theimproved camping tents 10, 110, 200 of the present invention will havewidespread industrial applicability. Therefore, it is expected that thecommercial utility of the present invention will be extensive and longlasting.

What is claimed is:
 1. An improved tent for quick construction,comprising: a fabric enclosure having walls, a roof and a floor, whichserve as walls, roof and floor of said tent; a frame which attaches toand supports said fabric enclosure; said frame including at least twoframe poles, said frame poles forming at least one V-shape which isbisected by a vertical line; and said frame poles having upper and lowerends, said lower ends being positioned in close proximity to form thetip of the V-shape, and the upper ends spread apart forming the legs ofthe V shape, said upper ends tending to fall away from each other oneither side of said bisecting vertical line to the extent allowed bytheir attachment to said fabric enclosure, thereby spreading said fabricenclosure and aiding in the quick construction of said tent.
 2. Animproved tent as in claim 1 , wherein: said frame poles include sidepoles and gable poles.
 3. An improved tent as in claim 2 , wherein: saidside poles and gable poles are connected by elbow connectors.
 4. Animproved tent as in claim 3 , wherein: said elbow connectors areattached in position to portions of said fabric enclosure thereby aidingin the quick construction of said tent.
 5. An improved tent as in claim2 , wherein: said side poles include a plurality of component pieces,each component piece having a central bore; and elastic connectors arepositioned within said central bore and said elastic connectors connectsaid side poles component pieces to quickly form said side poles.
 6. Animproved tent as in claim 1 , wherein: said four tent side walls formtwo pairs of opposing tent sides; and said frame poles form twoV-shapes, each of which V-shape is positioned adjacent one of saidopposing tent sides, such that two opposing V-shapes are configured. 7.An improved tent as in claim 6 , wherein: said frame poles of saidopposing V-shapes include side poles and gable poles; and said gablepoles are joined together with peak hubs.
 8. An improved tent as inclaim 1 , wherein: said frame poles have a hollow portion near saidlower end of said frame pole; said floor of said fabric enclosure has aperimeter; and at least one pin ring including at least one pin isattached to said perimeter of said fabric enclosure, such that said pincan be inserted into said hollow portion of said frame pole in order toquickly secure the position of said frame pole lower end and aid in thequick construction of said tent.
 9. An improved tent as in claim 8 ,wherein: said hollow portion of said frame poles is a socket.
 10. Animproved tent as in claim 1 , wherein: said floor of said fabricenclosure has a perimeter; and said perimeter includes attachment pointsfor stakes.